Learn the Secrets of Professional Songwriting
Have you ever listened to a song and thought, “I wish I could write something like that”? Many people assume that the artists they love write every single word and note of their music. While some artists do write all their own songs, many popular hits are the result of collaboration. It truly takes a team to create a song that connects with millions. This guide will show you how professional songwriters work behind the scenes to craft music that feels authentic to the artist and resonates with listeners.
You’ll learn about the different ways songs are created and pitched in the music industry. We’ll explore how songwriters work with artists to bring their visions to life. You’ll also discover the process of writing a song specifically to be offered to an artist, known as a ‘pitch song.’ By understanding these methods, you can begin to think like a professional songwriter.
Understanding the Songwriting Process
Songwriting is a craft that doesn’t always require formal music training. Many successful songwriters don’t play instruments but have a natural talent for creating melodies and lyrics. The key is to develop your ability to hear and express musical ideas. It’s common for artists to work with others, and this collaboration is where many great songs are born. Think of it like building something intricate; sometimes, you need different people with different skills to make it perfect.
A well-known example of this is Carole King. She had a successful career writing songs for other artists before becoming a famous performer herself. This showed many aspiring musicians that writing songs for others could be a real job. Professional songwriters often aim to make a song sound like it came directly from the artist performing it. This authenticity is what makes great songwriting feel so natural and powerful.
Two Ways Songs Get Made and Chosen
In the pop music world, there are two main ways a song gets to be recorded by an artist. One way is by working directly with the artist in a collaborative session. The other way is by writing a song and then offering it to an artist, which is called ‘pitching’ a song.
1. Collaborative Songwriting Sessions
In this method, a songwriter works in the same room with the artist. A producer or a few other songwriters might also be present. The goal is to help the artist express their ideas and vision through music. Sometimes, the artist knows exactly what they want to say and how they want it to sound. In these cases, the songwriter acts more like a supportive guide, helping to shape the artist’s existing ideas. Other times, the artist might be unsure about their message or direction.
When the artist needs help finding their words or melody, the songwriter steps in to help them figure it out. They work together to build the song, making sure it reflects the artist’s style and message. This process is about bringing the artist’s unique perspective to life through music.
2. Pitching a Song
The second method involves writing a song without the artist present. A group of musicians, including songwriters and producers, will get together to create a song. Once the song is finished, they will offer it, or ‘pitch’ it, to different artists. The hope is that an artist will like the song and decide to record and release it. This is like creating a custom-fit outfit for someone you haven’t met yet.
When writing a pitch song, songwriters need to consider the artist’s ‘brand.’ This means thinking about the artist’s usual style, genre, and the kind of music their fans expect. Often, the record label will provide a ‘brief’ with information about themes or topics the artist wants to explore in their music. Songwriters use this information to create a song that feels like a natural fit for the artist.
Crafting the Perfect Pitch Song
To write a successful pitch song, you need to carefully consider the artist you’re writing for. Think about their musical style and what makes them unique. It’s also important to consider their vocal range. Can they hit those high notes, or do they have a different kind of vocal style? Researching the artist can provide valuable insights. For example, if you know an artist is going through a personal experience, like a breakup, you can try to write about something you might have in common.
This allows you to write from a place that feels genuine to you, which often makes the song more authentic. When you write a song for someone else, you’re essentially choosing a suit from your closet and hoping it fits them perfectly. You consider their size, style, and shape to make the best possible choice.
Considering the Artist’s Goals
Before starting to write, it’s helpful to understand what success means to the artist. Is their goal to have a chart-topping hit that’s popular worldwide, like a song reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100? Or is their success measured differently, perhaps by making a strong artistic statement or receiving an award like a Grammy nomination?
If the artist is focused on popularity, the song likely needs to be catchy, relatable, and direct. This might influence whether the song includes a bridge or how simple the message needs to be. Pop songs often use familiar chord progressions that listeners recognize, making them feel comfortable and connected. The way these familiar elements are combined is what makes a song unique and memorable.
Artistic Expression vs. Commercial Appeal
Some artists aim for broad popularity, using common musical patterns that resonate with many people. These are the kinds of chords you hear often in popular music. However, the way these chords are arranged can make a song feel both familiar and fresh, avoiding legal issues while still connecting with listeners. This approach balances widespread appeal with a unique sound.
On the other hand, some artists want to make a strong artistic statement. They might explore more unusual musical ideas, similar to artists in jazz or punk genres. These artists prioritize expressing a unique vision, even if it doesn’t appeal to the widest audience. Songwriters need to keep these different intentions in mind to create music that fits the artist’s goals.
The Songwriting Process: Melody or Lyrics First?
The starting point for writing a song can vary. Many songwriters begin with a melody, humming a tune until it feels right. Sometimes, a strong lyrical idea comes first, perhaps inspired by a conversation or a specific thought. For many, melody is the foundation, and lyrics are built upon it later. This approach allows the music to guide the story and emotions of the song.
In some songwriting environments, like certain rooms in the music industry, a producer might play a beat or track. Then, all the writers in the room will take turns in a vocal booth, improvising melodies. These improvised melodies are then used as a base to build the rest of the song. This collaborative and improvisational method is common for developing initial song ideas.
Nashville’s Lyrical Focus
In contrast, the songwriting process in Nashville, a major country music hub, often starts differently. Here, writers might begin with a title and a core concept for the song. The focus is heavily on the lyrics and the overall story the song tells. Songwriters then work to fit these carefully crafted lyrics to melodies that can best support them. In Nashville, the lyrical content is often considered the most important element.
Tips for Aspiring Songwriters
If you’re interested in songwriting, start by listening to a lot of music. Pay attention to how songs are structured, how rhymes are used, and how different parts of a song create contrast and interest. Notice what you like about the songs you enjoy and try to understand why they work so well.
It’s also crucial to leave your ego behind. The goal is to create the best possible song, not to get credit for every single idea. In a collaborative setting, if someone else has a better idea, embrace it! Being part of a great song, even if not all the ideas were yours, is a valuable experience and a chance to learn from others.
The Power of Collaboration
Learning to collaborate effectively is one of the most important skills for a songwriter. Understand your own strengths and weaknesses. If you’re not particularly strong with melodies, find a collaborator who is. By working together, you can combine your talents to create something truly great. This partnership allows you to fill in each other’s gaps and achieve a higher level of creativity.
To build a career as a songwriter or producer, you need to work incredibly hard. Keep writing songs, even when you don’t feel inspired. The more you practice, the better you become. Each song you write is an opportunity for growth. Your best song today will likely be surpassed by an even better song tomorrow if you keep practicing.
Practice Makes Progress
Think of songwriting like a sport or a muscle; it needs regular exercise to get stronger. Keep pushing yourself and continue creating. Through consistent effort and dedication, you’ll discover musical possibilities you never imagined. The journey of songwriting is a continuous process of learning, creating, and refining your skills.
Source: Do artists really write their own songs? | Think Like A Musician (YouTube)
